Steam Deck: 640x480 external monitor resolution
• 179 words • 1 min • updated
Problem statement: When connecting the Steam Deck to a TV via a dock + HDMI cable, the display resolution is stuck at 640x480.
No other resolutions are available, in both gaming mode and in desktop mode.
A few anecdotes in the internets™ suggest to…
After thoroughly exploring various troubleshooting options and attempting different approaches such as disconnecting cables and power cycling the Steam Deck, I eventually discovered the simplest solution to this problem: removing power from the dock.
It sounds disingenuous, but I verified it works indeed:
- TV off, steam deck off.
- Plug in the dock + the HDMI cable. DO NOT connect the power (yet).
- Turn the TV on.
- Turn the steam deck on.
- Verify (hope, pray, wish) the resolution, it should be 1920x1080 (or similar).
- Plug the power.
Your Steam Deck is connected to the TV, therefore you will need an external Bluetooth controller to interact with it and play games. I like the Stadia controller. It is still possible to find a few units in the aftermarket.
Now go play your game and have fun 🎮.